Keeping the lights on without compromising safety is the motivation behind Vector’s decision to stop live line work where possible and shut off power when notified of low hanging or downed power lines. 

Chief Executive Simon Mackenzie says Vector is taking a lead in how the energy industry manages the risks inherent in working and living around electricity. 

“We are committed to safety in everything we do. The only thing we care about more than keeping the lights on, is keeping our community and our people safe,” he said.

When alerted to a low hanging or downed line, Vector will remotely shut down power to that area, before crews arrive on site. As a precaution, all lines should be considered live at all times. Low hanging or downed lines should never be approached without approval from emergency services or a Vector crew attending on site.

Vector’s decision to stop live line work where possible extends to both planned and outage maintenance on its network. 

To assist in the prompt and safe restoration of power, Vector crews have access to bus lanes to minimise travel time to any incident. Vector is also looking at new technology options which can be deployed to minimise the impact and disruption for customers.

Low hanging or downed lines may be Vector’s, other utilities’, or customers’, but it is best to turn the power off as a precaution until crews get to site to check for safety. 

“We appreciate our new safety protocols may lead to a few more outages, but we believe Aucklanders will agree with us that keeping our people and the public safe is worth it.”  

Vector asks the public to call Vector on 0508 VECTOR (0508 832 867) to advise of any low hanging or downed power lines. 

ENDS